Hair is your crowning glory. It is one of the first things people notice about you. A full head of healthy-looking hair can make you look more attractive, stylish, and even younger. Conversely, thinning hair or a receding hairline can make you look older than you are and can be very distressing.
But wait a minute, are you facing hair fall or hair thinning? Do you have a receding hairline, or is your hairline just maturing? Confused? Don't worry; we are here to help you understand the difference between a maturing hairline and a receding hairline.
Often, people mistake a maturing hairline for a receding hairline. And results in panic. Understanding the difference between the two is essential to take appropriate action.
So, you've determined your hairline is on the move. You're looking for answers on what it is, why it is happening, and what you can do to prevent it or move forward. Hair loss affects millions of people, both men, and women. Despite being somewhat natural to many when ageing, it doesn't make the process any easier.
In this article, we will be diving into maturing hairline vs receding hairline, what they are, how to tell the difference, and how you can tackle them to improve your confidence.
A Maturing Hairline and Its Characteristics
A maturing hairline is a normal change for most men as they age. It usually starts during the late teens or early twenties. The hairline gradually moves back (recedes) and forms an "M" shape. The rate and extent of a recession vary from person to person. A mature hairline typically does not result in total baldness.
Sometimes it may show similarities to male baldness and be referred to as a " juvenile hairline," and there is often a fine line between the two. The M-shaped hairline's 1.5cm "point" is typically where recession starts.
A V-shaped point (or an "M" depending on how you look at it) in the hairline characterises a hairline widow's peak, but in contrast to a maturing hairline, the widow's peak is usually genetic. Some men may have a combination of both characteristics.
Androgens are responsible for many masculinising changes during puberty, such as the deepening of the voice, facial and body hair growth, and increased muscle mass.
How Receding Hairline Differs from Maturing Hairline
A receding hairline is different from a maturing hairline in that it typically indicates early-onset male pattern baldness.
Male pattern hair loss is caused by sensitivity to the hormone dihydrotestosterone (DHT). DHT is a by-product of testosterone, and it shrinks hair follicles, leading to thinning hair and, eventually, baldness.
A receding hairline usually starts with a thinning of the hair at the temples, followed by a widening forehead as hair loss progresses.
Male pattern baldness affects about 50% of men by age 50 and is characterised by hair loss on the scalp in a well-defined pattern.
Some men may have a receding hairline and a maturing hairline at the same time. This is because the two conditions can have similar causes (e.g., hormones) and can affect the same area of the scalp.
Genetics also plays a role, as males with a family history of baldness are more likely to experience hair loss.
Leading Causes Of Hair Loss And A Receding Hairline
We know there is always a reason for everything. Sometimes, it could be stress or genes, and sometimes, you might have just been over-using some hair styling products. Hair loss is no different. A certain number of causes that could result in you losing your hair are:
Hormonal Imbalance
One of the most common causes of hair loss is a hormonal imbalance. When our hormones are out of sync, it can lead to many problems, including hair loss.
Excessive hair shedding due to a hormonal imbalance usually returns to normal once the hormone levels are balanced.
Ageing
As we age, our hair follicles start to shrink and produce thinner strands of hair. This natural process happens to everyone, but some people experience it more than others.
You might see your father or grandfather with a receding hairline.
Medical Conditions
Certain medical conditions can cause hair loss. These include thyroid problems, alopecia, and lupus.
If you think you might have one of these conditions, it's essential to see a doctor so they can diagnose and treat the problem. When the hairline is receding due to a medical condition, it usually grows back once treated.
Lifestyle Habits Such As Smoking
Smoking is one of the worst things you can do for your health, and it turns out it's also bad for your hair.
Studies have shown that smoking can accelerate hair loss and lead to a receding hairline. If you smoke, quitting is one of the best things you can do for your hairline.
Diet
What you eat has a significant impact on your overall health, and that includes your hair. Eating a diet high in processed foods, sugar, and unhealthy fats can lead to hair loss.
On the other hand, eating a healthy diet rich in nutrients can help prevent hair loss and even promote hair growth.
Is Your Hairline Maturing | Test Your Self:
As we age, it's not uncommon for our hair to change. Mature hairline vs receding is a hot topic these days. Most men will develop a mature hairline that is not receding.
If you are unsure if your hairline is maturing or receding, the following 3 steps will help you determine what is happening and what actions you can take.
Inspect Your Hairline
Look closely at your hairline in the mirror when you shampoo your hairline. If you have mature hairlines, you will notice that your hairline has started to recede slightly from your forehead.
This is normal and nothing to be concerned about. If you have receding hairlines, you will notice that your hairline is noticeably thinner than it used to be and may have even started to form a "V" shape.
If your hairline is receding, treatments can help slow down or even stop the process.
Evaluate Your Widow's Peak
If your maturing hairlines have started to form a widow's peak, this is normal and nothing to be concerned about.
A widow's peak is a V-shaped point in the hairline in the centre of the forehead. If you have a receding hairline, your widow's peak will be more pronounced than it was in the past and may even extend further down your forehead.
Use Norwood Scale To Check For Stage Of Balding
The Norwood Scale is the most commonly used system to classify the stages of hair loss. If you are concerned that you may be experiencing hair loss, this scale can help you determine the extent of your hair loss and if treatment is necessary.
Maturing Hairline Vs Balding: Which Needs To Be Addressed?
One of the most common questions we get is whether a man’s hairline is maturing or if he is balding. It’s a tricky question to answer without a professional evaluation.
We at Visionary Scalps have years of experience in the hair loss industry and have helped thousands of men camouflage the signs of hair loss and in turn boost their confidence.
With that being said, the below points are meant to serve as a general guide to help you differentiate between a maturing hairline and balding:
- Balding is characterised by a loss of density in the hair on your head. You will notice patches of skin where there used to be hair. In addition, the diameter of each strand of hair will decrease.
- A maturing hairline is entirely different. A maturing hairline is a natural process wherein your hairline recedes from your forehead. This is a very gradual process and usually starts in your early twenties. You will not experience any loss of density, and the diameter of each strand of hair will remain the same.
How To Prevent Hairloss Whether A Mature Hairline Or Receding Hairline
Without care and prevention, both a mature hairline and a receding hairline can lead to male pattern baldness. The earlier you catch it, the better your chance of saving your hair. To keep your hair from a mature hairline or receding hairline, do the following:
Use Natural Hair Growth Products
There are plenty of natural hair growth products on the market these days. Research different products and find one that best suits your needs.
You can use essential oils, such as peppermint or rosemary oil, which have been shown to promote hair growth. Speciality shampoos and conditioners also contain ingredients to promote hair growth.
Maintain Mental & Physical Health
It’s essential to maintain good mental and physical health if you want to prevent hair loss. Get enough sleep, exercise regularly, and eat a healthy diet.
Reducing stress can also help prevent hair loss. Consider talking to a therapist or counsellor if you’re dealing with a lot of stress.
Avoid Harsh Chemicals & Hot Tools
If you’re using harsh chemicals or hot tools on your hair, this can cause damage and lead to hair loss. Use gentle products and avoid excessive heat when styling your hair.
Professional Hair Care
If you’re concerned about a maturing or receding hairline, it’s a good idea to see a professional for help. A professional can give you advice on which products to use and how to style your hair in a way that will minimise damage.
Hair treatments such as scalp micropigmentation can also help to camouflage a receding hairline. Density and hairline restoration are other options when dealing with hair loss.
Hair treatments are effective for both men and women.
Do Not Ignore The Problem
The sooner you take action to prevent hair loss, the better. If you ignore the problem, it will only get worse. Be sure to see a doctor if you’re concerned about hair loss so they can rule out any underlying medical conditions.
Conclusion
As technology improves, more and more treatments are available for people who are worried about their hair.
Many options are available, and the best depends on the individual. Talk to a doctor or dermatologist if you're unsure what to do. They can help you figure out the best course of action.
We at Visionary Scalps offer our extensive experience in hair treatments to give you the best chance to achieve your hair goals. Whether it's balding, receding, or a maturing hairline, we offer the latest in hair treatment technology to give you the appearance of a full head of hair.
Gone are the days when your friends would make fun of you for your hairline. Now you can take charge and get the hair you've always wanted.
Just call us or scroll below to schedule a free consultation. It's time to take action and get the hair you deserve!